Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Book Review: The Heart of Memory by Alison Strobel

When beloved Christian writer and speaker Savannah Trover becomes gravely ill, she has to face that sham that her faith has become. Days before her heart transplant, she vows to change her ways and she renews her relationship with Christ. But when she awakens from the surgery, Savannah discovers that her faith has left her completely.

Savannah’s husband, Shaun, is concerned about his wife’s odd behaviour–and even more concerned about the secret he’s keeping from her. If she doesn’t bring down their ministry, then he might, losing his family in the process.

A stranger may hold the answer to Savannah’s recovery, but is Savannah strong enough to return to her old way of life? Can Shaun right his wrongs before word gets out? And do either one of them remember how to be who they once were–or who they want to be?

As always when I hear of or see an Alison Strobel book that I haven’t bought, I grab it – quick smart. For those that haven’t had the privilege of reading her work: it’s solid stuff, so make sure you get her on your “authors to read” list!

"The Heart of Memory" takes us into the life of a Christian family who on the outside have it altogether; but behind closed doors struggle deeply with bitterness, self-centeredness, deceit and lastly apathy. They’ve been handed the good life by God but forgot about him. Rebuilding their life together takes time. Alison deftly shows how things are not resolved so easily and quickly, but with time, hope and faith in Christ the future is bright, not terribly clear, but bright.

This is solid writing. Alison has given us three very real people who are struggling. They are trying to come to terms with their past mistakes and somehow, try and forge a future together. These people are distant from God for three different reasons, yet God still meets them where they are.

Christ never promised the road would be easy but he did promise to walk it with us. This is the ultimate truth of "The Heart of Memory". If Shaun, Savannah and their daughter will truly let God back into their lives, he will walk with them all the way -even when the road is difficult. Focus on him and the difficulties - though still there – will fade into the background when Christ is with them.

Those looking for strong, realistic characters whose faith is lost and found again will love this. The depth and grace with which Alison writes will stay with you for a long time.